Where’s Col du Galibier?
France, europe
43.3 km
2,645 m
easy
Year-round
Wanna tackle a real beast of a climb in the French Alps? Then Col du Galibier needs to be on your list! This legendary pass, clocking in at a whopping 2,645m (8,678 ft), is a must-do for any serious road tripper.
You'll find this beauty near Grenoble, straddling the Hautes-Alpes and Savoie departments in southeastern France. Get ready for a 43.3 km (27 miles) stretch of pure driving bliss (and maybe a little agony!). The D902 road winds its way from Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne to the D1091, topping out as one of the highest passes in France.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! The views are simply breathtaking, both on the way up and on the descent. At the summit, you're treated to stunning scenery, with viewpoints offering glimpses of iconic peaks like Meije, Grand Galibier, and even Mont Blanc. Plus, you can grab a bite and a coffee at the top – because you'll definitely deserve it!
Now, don't think this is going to be a leisurely Sunday drive. The road is part of the Route des Grandes Alpes, and it throws some serious challenges your way. Expect hairpin turns, steep inclines reaching a maximum gradient of 13.1%, and the added fun of altitude sickness kicking in above 2000m. This climb demands respect.
Keep in mind, this high-altitude pass is usually only open from June 1st to October 31st, depending on the snow. So, plan your trip accordingly!
Fun fact: The road was originally built in 1876 for military purposes, but it gained fame as a key stage in the Tour de France. It's a place steeped in cycling history!
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 43.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,645 m
- Difficulty
- easy
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